Northern On Xfm

[Paulb]

I was glad to have found out that there's a northern show on Manchester's new 'cool' radio station Xfm. This station is aimed at people who like alternative music, unsigned bands and basically anything thats not manufactured pop crap.

So I thought this was a great oppertunity to let a younger widespread audience listen to the brilliant music we all love. Anyway, I tuned in the other night and heard the DJ, Russ Winstanley playing a Twisted Wheel special.

Now I have nothing against Russ Winstanley and I know he has contributed greatly to the northern scene over the years. But when I heard his show it made me shudder. It was just the way he went on about how much it used to be to get into the wheel and how much a pint cost at the time, where he heard this tune and who did a version of this...etc.

If I'd have been a new listener I'd have instantly thought "shut up grandad" and turned over.

I really wish that they would just play the bloody tunes and have a younger DJ with a bit of something about them, someone that younger people will like listening to and not someone in the later stages of life going on about the good old days.

I mean, the music really does sell itself so why do we need to know the life story of the artist, label, venue, price of a pie, how much you could do with a pound in the 60's and still have enough for 3 black puddings and all afternnon on the fair,etc.....

Now I know the knowledge is a key part of the scene, but to me and thousands of younger folk out there, we really aren't that arsed about it. Just play me the bloody tune.

All my mates listen to Xfm instead of the usual shite and I believe the station could do a lot for getting new blood onto the scene, but with Russ as the DJ it just isn't going to happen.

I just want to make it clear that I have nothing against RW and I enjoy his show, but isn't it time to ditch the old school radio show's and move forward with the times and show people how cool the music is with a DJ thats a bit more "with it".

[Guest Baz]

What a supprise soon as i read RW was involved it made me cringe

Why the media always go for the has beens i never know, the only reason the show came accross like that is becasue like you say they have no idea what the heck northern soul is today just living off there old name and all they know is about that era.....OI MEDIA WORLD give it a f**kin rest we want upto date shows ect,

Write to them and complain Paul

[Paulb]

I honestly belive I could do a better job myself mate.

[Dave]

I was glad to have found out that there's a northern show on Manchester's new 'cool' radio station Xfm. This station is aimed at people who like alternative music, unsigned bands and basically anything thats not manufactured pop crap.

So I thought this was a great oppertunity to let a younger widespread audience listen to the brilliant music we all love. Anyway, I tuned in the other night and heard the DJ, Russ Winstanley playing a Twisted Wheel special.

Now I have nothing against Russ Winstanley and I know he has contributed greatly to the northern scene over the years. But when I heard his show it made me shudder. It was just the way he went on about how much it used to be to get into the wheel and how much a pint cost at the time, where he heard this tune and who did a version of this...etc.

If I'd have been a new listener I'd have instantly thought "shut up grandad" and turned over.

I really wish that they would just play the bloody tunes and have a younger DJ with a bit of something about them, someone that younger people will like listening to and not someone in the later stages of life going on about the good old days.

I mean, the music really does sell itself so why do we need to know the life story of the artist, label, venue, price of a pie, how much you could do with a pound in the 60's and still have enough for 3 black puddings and all afternnon on the fair,etc.....

Now I know the knowledge is a key part of the scene, but to me and thousands of younger folk out there, we really aren't that arsed about it. Just play me the bloody tune.

All my mates listen to Xfm instead of the usual shite and I believe the station could do a lot for getting new blood onto the scene, but with Russ as the DJ it just isn't going to happen.

I just want to make it clear that I have nothing against RW and I enjoy his show, but isn't it time to ditch the old school radio show's and move forward with the times and show people how cool the music is with a DJ thats a bit more "with it".

Spot on Paul!

Write to the radio station and tell them mate!

There should be a trap door beneath the presenters chair which opens into a mineshaft at the mention of any of the following words: Wigan, 1973, old money, Casino, baggies, Torch, whippets, badges, mild, talcum powder, back in the day, pigeons, moustache etc. Add to the list as you see fit.

Hope you are well, btw.

Edited September 20, 2006 by Dave

[Guest biggray1]

Spot on Paul!

Write to the radio station and tell them mate!

There should be a trap door beneath the presenters chair which opens into a mineshaft at the mention of any of the following words: Wigan, 1973, old money, Casino, baggies, Torch, whippets, badges, mild, talcum powder, back in the day, pigeons, moustache etc. Add to the list as you see fit.

Hope you are well, btw.

Well said Dave..couldnt have wrote it any better.

[Paulb]

I've sent them an email telling them that I'm their man

Lets see if they get back to me......

How's tricks Dave, long time no see mate. Where've you been hiding?

Edited September 20, 2006 by PaulB

[grant]

If you can get it where you are Paul tune into Pure Radio (Stockport) - 6pm - 7pm every saturday on 107.8fm - I hope to capture stuff across the board with oldies (there wouldnt be a scene without them mate), x-over, modern, stompers etc. Also aiming to have different guests bringing a different flavour over the coming months - so if you fancy a stint on the radio feel free to give me a shout. Shows are pre-recorded for now whilst i learn the ropes in the cockpit but hopefully going live in the new year.

Hopefully by early next year it will be streamed on the net too.

Grant

[Guest Northern Nige]

Have to agree PaulB

Tuned in myself 2 sundays ago, only listened to 30 mins or so, turned off and waited for Mr.B's show on Solar. Far far more enjoyable.

Grant, is stockport radio on the web, if so, when bud

[Mark Bicknell]

Paul, i take all your points on board mate but sadly the radio world is very much based on jobs for the boys and more about who you know rather than what you know, outside of the scene the mainstream are clueless and will only see the association for example with Wigan Casino as being the be all and end of of the Northern scene, prior to XFM starting like months before i knew there was possibly an opening for a Northern based show and to be honest being happy with my Solar gig i did'nt even submit a promo show reel as again i knew what the score was, often the powers above think they know it all and have their finger on the pulse when in truth they are way off the mark.

I would suggest that any such show on stations like this would be themed to be Northern Soul but somewhat watered down rather than the real deal because that's how it works, so the playlist and style of the show would be very structured and not specialist or anything of depth or substance with very much a retro 'Keep The Faith' ethic rather than having an open playlist or free style approach as i do on Solar.

I suggest that thy are happy to have a Northern Soul show which is retro and safe rather than something which is a true reflection of the scene today.

Mavericks and free spirits are few and far between in broadcasting and often don't exsist on mainstream commercial radio, however they can be found on specialist stations on Digital and on the net, i guess XFM and similar stations feel safe and content with their version of Northrn Soul, Mr Winstanley has presented for many years via the BBC etc. and has a good reputation within the industry and the new station would have been influenced by his CV rather than his current involvement with todays scene, i do believe that to give the best possible repusentation of a subject that you should be at the very least current in the present rather than looking through rose tinted glasses in the past.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

[Winnie :-)]

I was glad to have found out that there's a northern show on Manchester's new 'cool' radio station Xfm. This station is aimed at people who like alternative music, unsigned bands and basically anything thats not manufactured pop crap.

So I thought this was a great oppertunity to let a younger widespread audience listen to the brilliant music we all love. Anyway, I tuned in the other night and heard the DJ, Russ Winstanley playing a Twisted Wheel special.

Now I have nothing against Russ Winstanley and I know he has contributed greatly to the northern scene over the years. But when I heard his show it made me shudder. It was just the way he went on about how much it used to be to get into the wheel and how much a pint cost at the time, where he heard this tune and who did a version of this...etc.

If I'd have been a new listener I'd have instantly thought "shut up grandad" and turned over.

I really wish that they would just play the bloody tunes and have a younger DJ with a bit of something about them, someone that younger people will like listening to and not someone in the later stages of life going on about the good old days.

I mean, the music really does sell itself so why do we need to know the life story of the artist, label, venue, price of a pie, how much you could do with a pound in the 60's and still have enough for 3 black puddings and all afternnon on the fair,etc.....

Now I know the knowledge is a key part of the scene, but to me and thousands of younger folk out there, we really aren't that arsed about it. Just play me the bloody tune.

All my mates listen to Xfm instead of the usual shite and I believe the station could do a lot for getting new blood onto the scene, but with Russ as the DJ it just isn't going to happen.

I just want to make it clear that I have nothing against RW and I enjoy his show, but isn't it time to ditch the old school radio show's and move forward with the times and show people how cool the music is with a DJ thats a bit more "with it".

==========

No disrespect Paul, but although it's aimed at alternative audiences, I doubt it's on air to encourage young blood onto the northern scene. How many times a week is it on? What time? what are the shows either side of it?

Russ may not have been my first choice as resident DJ, but his name is synonomous with Northern, so it's hardly a shock he was chosen. As for mentioning the history, it's not a new genre of music being introduced to the public for the first time, so obviously the roots will be discussed so as to explain how it's evolved and why it's still evolving. Perhaps they should drop history as a subject from the national curriculum as some on SS seem to have a major problem with it

Winnie:-)

[Paulb]

Paul, i take all your points on board mate but sadly the radio world is very much based on jobs for the boys and more about who you know rather than what you know, outside of the scene the mainstream are clueless and will only see the association for example with Wigan Casino as being the be all and end of of the Northern scene, prior to XFM starting like months before i knew there was possibly an opening for a Northern based show and to be honest being happy with my Solar gig i did'nt even submit a promo show reel as again i knew what the score was, often the powers above think they know it all and have their finger on the pulse when in truth they are way off the mark.

I would suggest that any such show on stations like this would be themed to be Northern Soul but somewhat watered down rather than the real deal because that's how it works, so the playlist and style of the show would be very structured and not specialist or anything of depth or substance with very much a retro 'Keep The Faith' ethic rather than having an open playlist or free style approach as i do on Solar.

I suggest that thy are happy to have a Northern Soul show which is retro and safe rather than something which is a true reflection of the scene today.

Mavericks and free spirits are few and far between in broadcasting and often don't exsist on mainstream commercial radio, however they can be found on specialist stations on Digital and on the net, i guess XFM and similar stations feel safe and content with their version of Northrn Soul, Mr Winstanley has presented for many years via the BBC etc. and has a good reputation within the industry and the new station would have been influenced by his CV rather than his current involvement with todays scene, i do believe that to give the best possible repusentation of a subject that you should be at the very least current in the present rather than looking through rose tinted glasses in the past.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

Its just the way he presents it Mark, its criminal!!!!

IF thats the way it works then its a poor do really. But when they listen to his show's do they think he is the best man for the job.

I'd be embarrased to say I listened to that show and would never dream of telling my mates to tune in.

Is Northern Soul forever to be destined as old man's music????????!!!!!!!!!

[Guest Baz]

Perhaps they should drop history as a subject from the national curriculum as some on SS seem to have a major problem with it

Winnie:-)

Theres wanting to learn and then there is having it rammed down your neck every time its on the media

[Paulb]

==========

No disrespect Paul, but although it's aimed at alternative audiences, I doubt it's on air to encourage young blood onto the northern scene. How many times a week is it on? What time? what are the shows either side of it?

Russ may not have been my first choice as resident DJ, but his name is synonomous with Northern, so it's hardly a shock he was chosen. As for mentioning the history, it's not a new genre of music being introduced to the public for the first time, so obviously the roots will be discussed so as to explain how it's evolved and why it's still evolving. Perhaps they should drop history as a subject from the national curriculum as some on SS seem to have a major problem with it

Winnie:-)

Xfm is aimed at a young audience Winnie. All the Dj's they have are funny, fast talking, cool people. RW is none of those things and the majority of people that listen to his show have no idea who he is!

The last thing anyone below 30 wants to hear about is old money. He'll fit it into a tale 8 times in 1min 30secs.

And you are right, its not there to encourage young people onto the scene. Thats my point!!!!!! There's more chance of them signing up to work down the pit than go anywhere near a soul night.

[Winnie :-)]

Paul, i take all your points on board mate but sadly the radio world is very much based on jobs for the boys and more about who you know rather than what you know, outside of the scene the mainstream are clueless and will only see the association for example with Wigan Casino as being the be all and end of of the Northern scene, prior to XFM starting like months before i knew there was possibly an opening for a Northern based show and to be honest being happy with my Solar gig i did'nt even submit a promo show reel as again i knew what the score was, often the powers above think they know it all and have their finger on the pulse when in truth they are way off the mark.

I would suggest that any such show on stations like this would be themed to be Northern Soul but somewhat watered down rather than the real deal because that's how it works, so the playlist and style of the show would be very structured and not specialist or anything of depth or substance with very much a retro 'Keep The Faith' ethic rather than having an open playlist or free style approach as i do on Solar.

I suggest that thy are happy to have a Northern Soul show which is retro and safe rather than something which is a true reflection of the scene today.

Mavericks and free spirits are few and far between in broadcasting and often don't exsist on mainstream commercial radio, however they can be found on specialist stations on Digital and on the net, i guess XFM and similar stations feel safe and content with their version of Northrn Soul, Mr Winstanley has presented for many years via the BBC etc. and has a good reputation within the industry and the new station would have been influenced by his CV rather than his current involvement with todays scene, i do believe that to give the best possible repusentation of a subject that you should be at the very least current in the present rather than looking through rose tinted glasses in the past.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

==============

But they are representing what the scene is about today. 90% of the people attending northern nights want oldies, and ones that they're familiar with, not something a DJ is pushing for his own reasons. I'm not citing any particular DJs, but we all know it happens. I keep seeing in various points we like to see ourselves as a progressive scene, the truth is we're not, we're almost entirely nostalgia based.

Winnie:-)

[Mark Bicknell]

Its just the way he presents it Mark, its criminal!!!!

IF thats the way it works then its a poor do really. But when they listen to his show's do they think he is the best man for the job.

I'd be embarrased to say I listened to that show and would never dream of telling my mates to tune in.

Is Northern Soul forever to be destined as old man's music????????!!!!!!!!!

Paul, a few years ago i took a year out of work to do a media/braodcasting course in Manchester and believe me having met many radio/media types it's exactly like that infact worse, lot's of people thinking they know it all and know better, shallow and very frustrating, i'm not sure if the station would be that concerned about the presenter being the right man for the job rather than he must be because of the 'Casino' connection, some radio/media types are masters of knowing a little about everything rather than a lot about one thing if you understand what i mean, very few are music people to be honest.

If you feel this strongly about this then submit a show reel, no longer than 15 minutes otherwise they will bin it and see what happens, i tell you now what the answer will be mate, if it was about art and knowing your subject, having a passion, commitment and love of the music then you would get the job but it's not about that it's about to repeat myself knowing a little about everything etc. etc. which results in often not very good and a watered down media version of a subject rather than a worts and all approach.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

[Mark Bicknell]

==============

But they are representing what the scene is about today. 90% of the people attending northern nights want oldies, and ones that they're familiar with, not something a DJ is pushing for his own reasons. I'm not citing any particular DJs, but we all know it happens. I keep seeing in various points we like to see ourselves as a progressive scene, the truth is we're not, we're almost entirely nostalgia based.

Winnie:-)

I agree with you Winston but the question was asked from a radio perspective about how it should be presented circa 2006, yes it's retro but it can still be made curret and interesting for a cross section of ages as a form of entertainment, radio is a very different animal to the live gig situation, choice and variety can be explored when you don't have the dance floor to consider.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

[Winnie :-)]

Theres wanting to learn and then there is having it rammed down your neck every time its on the media

============

Thing is Baz, you could say the same thing about posts saying for the umpteenth time, lets not mention baggies 1973 etc etc etc. It's a two way street, at least I hope it is. The scene could do with publicity, ok they show footage of 'This England', and allegedly everyone curls up with laughter because of the clothes. Now fast forward it, to some current venues, a bunch of people talking about obscure vinyl, where it was pressed, when it came out, whether it's on the right label etc. Yep that's really going to bring in the youngsters, particularly those interested in joining an old peoples debating society

At least with the old footage they reflect the energy, and thats what we're really looking for from young people, energy IMO.

Winnie:-)

[Winnie :-)]

I agree with you Winston but the question was asked from a radio perspective about how it should be presented circa 2006, yes it's retro but it can still be made curret and interesting for a cross section of ages as a form of entertainment, radio is a very different animal to the live gig situation, choice and variety can be explored when you don't have the dance floor to consider.

Regards - Mark Bicknell.

=============

Understand what you're saying Mark and realise there's no dance floor to contend with, but playing obscure unknowns would not IMO reflect the majority today's scene. I'd also suggest that whilst there are no dancers, there are listeners, and would assume that the radio station wants it's largest possible audience. Taking on board what Paul has said and who the show is aimed at youngsters. If they make up the main audience, then the DJ would have a free hand, but if they're playing to an audience already familiar with northern, then their job would be to play to them.

As I understood it Paul was complaining more about RW's presentation than his playlists?

[Guest Baz]

============

Thing is Baz, you could say the same thing about posts saying for the umpteenth time, lets not mention baggies 1973 etc etc etc. It's a two way street, at least I hope it is. The scene could do with publicity, ok they show footage of 'This England', and allegedly everyone curls up with laughter because of the clothes. Now fast forward it, to some current venues, a bunch of people talking about obscure vinyl, where it was pressed, when it came out, whether it's on the right label etc. Yep that's really going to bring in the youngsters, particularly those interested in joining an old peoples debating society

At least with the old footage they reflect the energy, and thats what we're really looking for from young people, energy IMO.

Winnie:-)

Yep i agree with your first bit

So there is no energy at none of the current nighters?

this england doesnt look cool it looks well lets be honest here naff,

You've only got to walk down the 100 club and feel the energy there, or down in the backbeat room at middleton, at least you would see a good mix of people dressed half decent, what you must remember here is myself and Paul know what the younger lot will think of this, we are experts in this feild if you like and thats part of the reason there is a lack of young blood, because the scene is always portied as a load of naff with some one who looks like your uncle terry telling you about it.

[Mark Bicknell]

=============

Understand what you're saying Mark and realise there's no dance floor to contend with, but playing obscure unknowns would not IMO reflect the majority today's scene. I'd also suggest that whilst there are no dancers, there are listeners, and would assume that the radio station wants it's largest possible audience. Taking on board what Paul has said and who the show is aimed at youngsters. If they make up the main audience, then the DJ would have a free hand, but if they're playing to an audience already familiar with northern, then their job would be to play to them.

As I understood it Paul was complaining more about RW's presentation than his playlists?

[Mark Bicknell]

Sorry messed that up....lol never mentioned playing total unknows Winston, just playing the whole deal really, and yes audience it's important i know that more than most six years on Solar and all that, there is just so much good music to go at and personally i try and cover all i can.

Your comments are so vaild so respect.

Mark Bicknell.

[Winnie :-)]

Yep i agree with your first bit

So there is no energy at none of the current nighters?

this england doesnt look cool it looks well lets be honest here naff,

You've only got to walk down the 100 club and feel the energy there, or down in the backbeat room at middleton, at least you would see a good mix of people dressed half decent, what you must remember here is myself and Paul know what the younger lot will think of this, we are experts in this feild if you like and thats part of the reason there is a lack of young blood, because the scene is always portied as a load of naff with some one who looks like your uncle terry telling you about it.

=============

Sorry mate, but if you think any of the current nighters have the same energy as nighters in the 7Ts you're sadly mistaken. Some still have a great buzz, the 100 being a great example, but energy within the dancers..........you're having a laugh if you think that's the same.

I agree that you and Paul understand the younger element on the scene, but the reason there'll never be a massive influx of young blood is because they'd never accept it for what it is, they'd want to put their own stamp on it and that would never happen. So what the majority of youngsters will do is go and create their own genre, one where they make the rules, and if the next generation tried to infiltrate it, they'd be just as protective.

Winnie:-)

[Winnie :-)]

Sorry messed that up....lol never mentioned playing total unknows Winston, just playing the whole deal really, and yes audience it's important i know that more than most six years on Solar and all that, there is just so much good music to go at and personally i try and cover all i can.

Your comments are so vaild so respect.

Mark Bicknell.

=============

As I previously said Mark, wasn't citing any particular DJ, but we both know that some would say the only way forward is to play unknowns. Playing the 'whole deal' is the way forward, but that would mean respecting our heritage. Again I'm not saying you don't, but there are some who would deny it, and claim it to be a backward step.

[Guest Baz]

=============

Sorry mate, but if you think any of the current nighters have the same energy as nighters in the 7Ts you're sadly mistaken. Some still have a great buzz, the 100 being a great example, but energy within the dancers..........you're having a laugh if you think that's the same.

I agree that you and Paul understand the younger element on the scene, but the reason there'll never be a massive influx of young blood is because they'd never accept it for what it is, they'd want to put their own stamp on it and that would never happen. So what the majority of youngsters will do is go and create their own genre, one where they make the rules, and if the next generation tried to infiltrate it, they'd be just as protective.

Winnie:-)

But would that be such a bad thing? To be honest i think the scene is perfect the way it is and dont want to change a thing (apart from less disco ) I wouldn't want a massive influx of younger generation, but there is no harm in brining the music to them which is the corner im fighting here, ok so what if they put there own stamp on it but they would carry the music on which is the imoprtant thing, they wouldn't want to go to the same venues as us but if they had places local to them in their own surroundings in trendy bars ect at least the music is out there, IMO there would never be a scene in the world to touch this one with its longintivity, maybe the house scene comes fairly close, but the music evolves with the years, where as northern/soul is date speciffic, and if you ask any one just off the street and said what would you say was the coolest generation of music be it what ever genre pop/soul/r&b/rock what ever, they would say the 60's, and this is what this thread is about bringing northern soul to a wider younger audience through the radio, no need to mention any thing to do with wigan or any other venue past and present, just give em somthing to chew on and they would more than likely love it

[Winnie :-)]

But would that be such a bad thing? To be honest i think the scene is perfect the way it is and dont want to change a thing (apart from less disco ) I wouldn't want a massive influx of younger generation, but there is no harm in brining the music to them which is the corner im fighting here, ok so what if they put there own stamp on it but they would carry the music on which is the imoprtant thing, they wouldn't want to go to the same venues as us but if they had places local to them in their own surroundings in trendy bars ect at least the music is out there, IMO there would never be a scene in the world to touch this one with its longintivity, maybe the house scene comes fairly close, but the music evolves with the years, where as northern/soul is date speciffic, and if you ask any one just off the street and said what would you say was the coolest generation of music be it what ever genre pop/soul/r&b/rock what ever, they would say the 60's, and this is what this thread is about bringing northern soul to a wider younger audience through the radio, no need to mention any thing to do with wigan or any other venue past and present, just give em somthing to chew on and they would more than likely love it

==========

So if I'm understanding you, you're saying play the music to the younger generation without telling them where it came from and see what they make of it? Basically play without predjudice?

Winnie:-)

[Dave]

==========

No disrespect Paul, but although it's aimed at alternative audiences, I doubt it's on air to encourage young blood onto the northern scene. How many times a week is it on? What time? what are the shows either side of it?

Russ may not have been my first choice as resident DJ, but his name is synonomous with Northern, so it's hardly a shock he was chosen. As for mentioning the history, it's not a new genre of music being introduced to the public for the first time, so obviously the roots will be discussed so as to explain how it's evolved and why it's still evolving. Perhaps they should drop history as a subject from the national curriculum as some on SS seem to have a major problem with it

Winnie:-)

The history taught in schools is an important subject for youngsters and of interest to them.

The unhealthy nostalgia that pervades the northern scene is neither important nor interesting to the young people Paul says the show is aimed at.

[Winnie :-)]

The history taught in schools is an important subject for youngsters and of interest to them.

The unhealthy nostalgia that pervades the northern scene is neither important nor interesting to the young people Paul says the show is aimed at.

===========

Dave,

Common sense tells me the show isn't aimed at young people. If it were then the radio station would have employed someone young to present it, so as the 'youthful' listeners had someone to identify with. Paul said the station caters for minority genres, northern falls into that category, it's doubtful that they targetted an age group when they set up the show.

Winnie:-)

[BrianB]

Paul,

Being a bit of an expert on 3 black puddings and all day on the fair for 3 bob, I feel I must agree with your post. The music is fine, its the way it is put over.

I am also on the look out for a whippet (really) so does this bar me from future correspondance on this post?

Send em a tape son, what have you to lose?

[Guest Baz]

===========

Dave,

Common sense tells me the show isn't aimed at young people. If it were then the radio station would have employed someone young to present it, so as the 'youthful' listeners had someone to identify with. Paul said the station caters for minority genres, northern falls into that category, it's doubtful that they targetted an age group when they set up the show.

Winnie:-)

Radio one was aimed at young people, but they still had John Peel presenting one of the most cutting edge shows on there.

Trust me (and Paul) when we say XFM is most definately aimed at a young audience

==========

So if I'm understanding you, you're saying play the music to the younger generation without telling them where it came from and see what they make of it? Basically play without predjudice?

Winnie:-)

Spot on

Do you seriously think 99% of the listeners to the talked about show actually care if a record was play at x venue so many years ago, its hardly going to make them say, oh well it must be the best record in the world, they dont they will either like it or not simple as.

Edited September 21, 2006 by Baz

[Winnie :-)]

Dave,

Common sense tells me the show isn't aimed at young people. If it were then the radio station would have employed someone young to present it, so as the 'youthful' listeners had someone to identify with. Paul said the station caters for minority genres, northern falls into that category, it's doubtful that they targetted an age group when they set up the show.

Winnie:-)

Radio one was aimed at young people, but they still had John Peel presenting one of the most cutting edge shows on there.

Trust me (and Paul) when we say XFM is most definately aimed at a young audience

QUOTE(Winnie :-) @ Sep 21 2006, 12:37 AM)

==========

So if I'm understanding you, you're saying play the music to the younger generation without telling them where it came from and see what they make of it? Basically play without predjudice?

Winnie:-)

Spot on

Do you seriously think 99% of the listeners to the talked about show actually care if a record was play at x venue so many years ago, its hardly going to make them say, oh well it must be the best record in the world, they dont they will either like it or not simple as.

=============

I don't dispute the stations main target audience is the younger generation, but to employ RW for this particular show, tells a different story. They're not looking to promote northen to a new audience, they're trying to satisfy an audience that already exists. Can't understand how you can't see that. A few youngsters tuning in and liking the music would make no difference, they're a business first and foremost and one which quite rightly wants to make a profit.

As for the John Peel analogy, not sure it holds water. Peel was 28 when he started working for Radio 1, so he was still on the fringe of youth culture, his show was maintained because he evolved with the popular music scene. RW's show, from what Paul has said, is a nostalgic look back, if the station didn't want this, do you honestly think he'd still be on air??

For that reason I'd say the majority of the listeners to that particular show, would want to be reminded ot life back then. You only have to look at SS from time to time, mention of this venue that venue, what was played, what life was like. Threads about how a particular person got to a venue. They're all part of the tapestry. I'm not positive why you have a dislikiing for the heritage of the northern scene, but I am sure you're not going to stop people waxing lyrical about it.

You happily talked about your first visit to the Dome the other day, which was what 6/7 years ago? The dome, as good as it was has now gone, it's no longer current should it's place and influence in the big scheme of things be forgotten because of that? Should we avoid talking about it to youngsters, because it would intimidate them?

Winnie:-)

[Guest Baz]

Win like Mark said, its about whats on paper and RW has alot on paper with broadcasting how ever he knows naff all about todays scene, Mark said and has insider knowlage that the media...radio employ people who think they know it, and to be honest RW doesn't ok he knows about back in the day but thats about it,

Heres a quote from the XFM Manchester web site

What audience is 97.7 Xfm going to deliver? Xfm Manchester will cater primarily for 15-34 men in Greater Manchester, with a wider audience of upmarket 15-34s, in line with Xfm's current 64% ABC1 bias across the UK. The male/female split will be approximately 60:40.

Im sure plenty of that target audience would remember and like to be rimended of how they used to go to wigan in the 70's.

Now will you understand what myself and Paul are saying

Edited September 21, 2006 by Baz

[chrissie]

When was the show Paul is referring to actually aired?

I am interested to see exactly how XFM promoted the show. I.e. was it promoted as a nostalgic voyage or was it promoted as a look at the Northern Scene.....................Did it do what it said on the tin?

QoFxx

[Winnie :-)]

Win like Mark said, its about whats on paper and RW has alot on paper with broadcasting how ever he knows naff all about todays scene, Mark said and has insider knowlage that the media...radio employ people who think they know it, and to be honest RW doesn't ok he knows about back in the day but thats about it,

Heres a quote from the XFM Manchester web site

Im sure plenty of that target audience would remember and like to be rimended of how they used to go to wigan in the 70's.

Now will you understand what myself and Paul are saying

=============

Baz, you avoided the questions, why was it ok for you to talk about the dome, but not for someone else to mention Wigan/Stafford etc? If you were on the show and played 'my proposal', would you steer clear of mentioning it's origins, or where you first heard it played?

I agree it's not how good you are but who you know, but haven't you also said in young DJ threads on SS, that that is something that happens on the northern scene currently? I would also suggest that if you think the majority of the current northern scene is about rarities and obscurities you're deluded. The Scene is retro, with lots of people enjoying it for the nostalgia. A few hundred people who still want the scene to progress are not representative of the majority, who are quite happy how it is, in which case RW would represent the majority.

Sorry don't buy into this 'their target audience for this show is malarkey', if they were trying to promote northern as the next big thing to a young crowd, they'd do their homework and get a young presenter. I still see it as a station championing minority musical genres. Can you let me know where you got that XFM blurb, so I can read what else they say.

Winnie:-)

[chrissie]

=============

Baz, you avoided the questions, why was it ok for you to talk about the dome, but not for someone else to mention Wigan/Stafford etc? If you were on the show and played 'my proposal', would you steer clear of mentioning it's origins, or where you first heard it played?

I agree it's not how good you are but who you know, but haven't you also said in young DJ threads on SS, that that is something that happens on the northern scene currently? I would also suggest that if you think the majority of the current northern scene is about rarities and obscurities you're deluded. The Scene is retro, with lots of people enjoying it for the nostalgia. A few hundred people who still want the scene to progress are not representative of the majority, who are quite happy how it is, in which case RW would represent the majority.

Sorry don't buy into this 'their target audience for this show is malarkey', if they were trying to promote northern as the next big thing to a young crowd, they'd do their homework and get a young presenter. I still see it as a station championing minority musical genres. Can you let me know where you got that XFM blurb, so I can read what else they say.

Winnie:-)

https://www.xfmmanchester.co.uk/

but can't find any detail on the actual show in question.

QoFxx

[Winnie :-)]

============

Thanks Chrissie. For a forward thinking alternative music site, their news page makes interesting reading.

Mention of Nirvana, White Stripes, Kasabian, a James Bond film, and someone's had a baby Had heard of a lot of the bands mentioned down the side, which I wouldn't have expected if they were truly championing unknown music. Also mentioned club nights etc.

https://www.xfm.co.uk/sectional.asp?id=338&b=news

Also put in a search for RW and it came up with, find out all about number ones in the chart. Looks pretty much to me like a radio station that wants to become 'big'

[Gert Mark]

Interesting.

Reading the thread i think that its less important what XFM are trying to achieve with this show as what a young soul fans hopes and expectations are for this show.

I think Win is correct that this is esentially a retro scene, but i also think that it is only this from Sunday to Thursday. When the weekend comes around the important thing is the night/nighter that you are at is fun and exiting, the history behind this events existance is only somthing you think about after the adrenaline calms down. So if we are to encourage "young blood" then i agree that Russ is probably a bad choice for presenter, and a younger presenter would probably focus on the Saturday night experiance more, which i think would be a bigger turn on for the 15 - 30 year olds.

[Dave]

Paul,

Being a bit of an expert on 3 black puddings and all day on the fair for 3 bob, I feel I must agree with your post. The music is fine, its the way it is put over.

I am also on the look out for a whippet (really) so does this bar me from future correspondance on this post?

Send em a tape son, what have you to lose?

Brian,

surely that should be in the wants section? You'll be hearing from Shane if you're not careful!

Alternatively we could have a new section for whippets, terriers and ferrets... the WTF? forum.

[grant]

Have to agree PaulB

Tuned in myself 2 sundays ago, only listened to 30 mins or so, turned off and waited for Mr.B's show on Solar. Far far more enjoyable.

Grant, is stockport radio on the web, if so, when bud

unfortunately not yet Paul but I think the Pure team are working on it - will keep you updated when i get any more info.

Grant

[grant]

When is the RW show on XFM?

Would like to listen to understand the viewpoints on here. Thing to note is (and its not just jumping to RWs defence) is that people doing these shows for smaller stations may be giving up their own time for free, I know I am and am sure the likes of Mark Bicknell etc are too. If the station has any sense it will listen to listeners views regarding presentaion, playlists etc. I certainly would welcome feedback on my shows as they gain momentum, like to know what stuff the majority of the listeners wanna hear etc. Thing is what if someone rings in for Muriel Day as a request? do i point blank refuse to play it - dont think so as at the end of the day it is a listener to the show (I'll save that one for when your on Mark )

Grant

[chrissie]

I was glad to have found out that there's a northern show on Manchester's new 'cool' radio station Xfm. This station is aimed at people who like alternative music, unsigned bands and basically anything thats not manufactured pop crap.

So I thought this was a great oppertunity to let a younger widespread audience listen to the brilliant music we all love. Anyway, I tuned in the other night and heard the DJ, Russ Winstanley playing a Twisted Wheel special.

Now I have nothing against Russ Winstanley and I know he has contributed greatly to the northern scene over the years. But when I heard his show it made me shudder. It was just the way he went on about how much it used to be to get into the wheel and how much a pint cost at the time, where he heard this tune and who did a version of this...etc.

If I'd have been a new listener I'd have instantly thought "shut up grandad" and turned over.

I really wish that they would just play the bloody tunes and have a younger DJ with a bit of something about them, someone that younger people will like listening to and not someone in the later stages of life going on about the good old days.

I mean, the music really does sell itself so why do we need to know the life story of the artist, label, venue, price of a pie, how much you could do with a pound in the 60's and still have enough for 3 black puddings and all afternnon on the fair,etc.....

Now I know the knowledge is a key part of the scene, but to me and thousands of younger folk out there, we really aren't that arsed about it. Just play me the bloody tune.

All my mates listen to Xfm instead of the usual shite and I believe the station could do a lot for getting new blood onto the scene, but with Russ as the DJ it just isn't going to happen.

I just want to make it clear that I have nothing against RW and I enjoy his show, but isn't it time to ditch the old school radio show's and move forward with the times and show people how cool the music is with a DJ thats a bit more "with it".

To be fair to XFM, going by your post, it did do what it said on the tin....

"Northern Soul with Russ Winstanley

Join Russ every Sunday as the Godfather Of Northern Soul brings stories, memories and spins the best classic cuts."

stories, memories and spins the best classic cuts........ sort of gives it away really doesn't it , the show is meant to be nostalgic, personally having read the blurb it would of convinced me not to turn on as it was obviously going to be the same old RW self adulation and twaddle, far better radio shows to tune in to on a Sunday night

QoFxx

[Winnie :-)]

Interesting.

Reading the thread i think that its less important what XFM are trying to achieve with this show as what a young soul fans hopes and expectations are for this show.

I think Win is correct that this is esentially a retro scene, but i also think that it is only this from Sunday to Thursday. When the weekend comes around the important thing is the night/nighter that you are at is fun and exiting, the history behind this events existance is only somthing you think about after the adrenaline calms down. So if we are to encourage "young blood" then i agree that Russ is probably a bad choice for presenter, and a younger presenter would probably focus on the Saturday night experiance more, which i think would be a bigger turn on for the 15 - 30 year olds.

==========

Mark,

There is no doubt in my mind that Baz and Paul are passionate about the scene and want it to progress for all the right reason, never disputed that. But I'm just not convinced that this particular radio station sees things in quite the same light, hence the reason for RW being used as opposed to either Paul or Baz.

Winnie:-)

[Guest woolie mark]

There should be a trap door beneath the presenters chair which opens into a mineshaft at the mention of any of the following words: Wigan, 1973, old money, Casino, baggies, Torch, whippets, badges, mild, talcum powder, back in the day, pigeons, moustache etc. Add to the list as you see fit.

can i add one hour r&b set to the list dave?

hope to see you at the 100 on sat mate, cheers

[Gert Mark]

==========

Mark,

There is no doubt in my mind that Baz and Paul are passionate about the scene and want it to progress for all the right reason, never disputed that. But I'm just not convinced that this particular radio station sees things in quite the same light, hence the reason for RW being used as opposed to either Paul or Baz.

Winnie:-)

Agreed. Thats what i meant when i said this is more about their hopes for the show rather than XFM's reasons for airing it.

I am probably inbetween the age groups which are polarising here (38) and i worry a lot about where im going to have a dance in 10 15+ years so those younger than me must be even more worried. So worried in fact that whenever Northern Soul gets a public airing they will heavily scruitinse it, to see if it is promoting the scene. The older ones among us have the luxury of just being able to enjoy it for what it is.

M

[Dave]

can i add one hour r&b set to the list dave?

hope to see you at the 100 on sat mate, cheers

No you can't! Perish the thought!

Haven't got a ticket I'm afraid, but no doubt bump into you somewhere before long.

[Guest Baz]

=============

Baz, you avoided the questions, why was it ok for you to talk about the dome, but not for someone else to mention Wigan/Stafford etc? If you were on the show and played 'my proposal', would you steer clear of mentioning it's origins, or where you first heard it played?

I agree it's not how good you are but who you know, but haven't you also said in young DJ threads on SS, that that is something that happens on the northern scene currently? I would also suggest that if you think the majority of the current northern scene is about rarities and obscurities you're deluded. The Scene is retro, with lots of people enjoying it for the nostalgia. A few hundred people who still want the scene to progress are not representative of the majority, who are quite happy how it is, in which case RW would represent the majority.

Sorry don't buy into this 'their target audience for this show is malarkey', if they were trying to promote northern as the next big thing to a young crowd, they'd do their homework and get a young presenter. I still see it as a station championing minority musical genres. Can you let me know where you got that XFM blurb, so I can read what else they say.

Winnie:-)

Win i think your missing all my points, im not saying no one should mention any thing it just gets my goat up that when ever northern soul is promoted through the more 'main stream' media, they go about it all wrong, why do you think Russ W got the job??? Let me hazard a guess here, no one at Xfm has really got a clue about the scene right? so they go too past media librarys 'to do their homework' so to speak, and thus they are presented with umpteen million clips/footage of Wigan and people talking about wigan and this 'godfather of northern soul' ( ) is at the helm of it all, so to their eyes he's the perfect man for the job, God father of northern soul my ar*e.......

Agreed. Thats what i meant when i said this is more about their hopes for the show rather than XFM's reasons for airing it.

I am probably inbetween the age groups which are polarising here (38) and i worry a lot about where im going to have a dance in 10 15+ years so those younger than me must be even more worried. So worried in fact that whenever Northern Soul gets a public airing they will heavily scruitinse it, to see if it is promoting the scene. The older ones among us have the luxury of just being able to enjoy it for what it is.

M

[Dave Moore]

I honestly belive I could do a better job myself mate.

There's an obvious answer here.....Paul lad.

Regards,

Dave

www.hitsvillesoulclub.com

www.theresthatbeat.com

[Winnie :-)]

Win i think your missing all my points, im not saying no one should mention any thing it just gets my goat up that when ever northern soul is promoted through the more 'main stream' media, they go about it all wrong, why do you think Russ W got the job??? Let me hazard a guess here, no one at Xfm has really got a clue about the scene right? so they go too past media librarys 'to do their homework' so to speak, and thus they are presented with umpteen million clips/footage of Wigan and people talking about wigan and this 'godfather of northern soul' ( ) is at the helm of it all, so to their eyes he's the perfect man for the job, God father of northern soul my ar*e.......

=============

Baz, don't think I did miss your points, agreed that yourself and Paul are passionate about the scene, agreed that Russ would probably not have been my first choice to present the show, also agree that the media tend to go to tried and trusted where northern is concerned.

The point I was making and it's born out by XFM's own blurb (reproduced courtesy of Chrissie's post) is that it is a nostalgia show, and not aimed at a younger audience. If the station says effectively, join Russ in a jaunt down the past, with stories and sounds of the time, then thats what it should be doing. If you're tuning in, then you know what to expect, and so would the regular audience. You keep turning a blind eye to the glaringly obvious it's a vehicle for nostalgia, which in my view represents the majority of the current scenes playlists and punters. It's not a show to progress the thoughts views playlists of those who believe themselves to be the cutting edge of todays scene. I really can't understand why you can't grasp that.

Winnie:-)

[Paulb]

Agreed. Thats what i meant when i said this is more about their hopes for the show rather than XFM's reasons for airing it.

I am probably inbetween the age groups which are polarising here (38) and i worry a lot about where im going to have a dance in 10 15+ years so those younger than me must be even more worried. So worried in fact that whenever Northern Soul gets a public airing they will heavily scruitinse it, to see if it is promoting the scene. The older ones among us have the luxury of just being able to enjoy it for what it is.

M

Spot on mate.

Xfm is on most students / younger folks radio's rather than radio 1. They and I will flick it on at various times of the day and listen to whats playing cos its normally good.

Regardless of the music, if they happen to turn it on during one of RW's rants, they'll simply put a cd on instead without giving it a chance.

This is my point!!!

Winnie, Xfm is a young persons station. Thats prob why noone on hear has heard the show. Its not a specialised northern show aimed at the scene, its show playing northern soul music. If it had a younger DJ playing the tunes and talking about nights around Manchester young people would check it out - FACT!!!!

If they hear RW presenting it and talking about a local night, chances are they'd probably presume its an old persons thing.

This is the fundamental reason young people aren't coming onto the scene. Its sold as an old persons thing, somewhere your Dad would go.

Why are young people into the Beatles, the kinks, the who, the jam, etc, its because its seen to be cool and you can hear someone on your wavelength playing it on the radio.

If I had a show that young people were listening to that are open minded about music (like Xfm) and I said,

"I'm going to play you a cracking northern tune hear, recently covered by Paul Weller and one of Ocean Colour Scene's favourite songs......Nolan Porter - If I could only be sure"

followed by

"If you like what you've heard on this show tonight then check out X all nighter on sat in Manchester sponsored by Xfm......"

People are going to come.and see what the crack is because someone their age is playing these amazing tunes and telling them about a night in town where they can hear it.

It will be like Field of Dreams. So Winnie, I think you need to understand that this is what has to be done and someone needs to do it quick.

[Modernsoulsucks]

Can't really see what objection there could be to Russ presenting a show on this small station aimed at Manchester trendy types. Richard has been doing a Northern show for years and he's not really been active since the early days of Stafford apart from his modern soul promotions.

Don't really remember walking into Wigan back in September 1973 and thinking that Russ Winstanley was worse than any of the other DJs.

As for young blood I ain't noticed that much apart from a few moddy types in R&B rooms dancing to stuff we would, and still do, laugh at. Guys, get it into your heads. It ain't Northern Soul. If I'd have played a 45 I didn't know that sounded like that it wouldn't have got past the first couple of bars.

If Paul B thinks he can do better let him give it a go but unless he's got some kick-ass collection of 45s we've never heard then I'd prefer Russ's nostalgia trip cos at least he was playing some of those 45s for the first time at Wigan.

ROD

[Modernsoulsucks]

Oh man, you blew it big time,Paul B.

Nolan Porter is your choice is it. Go back to listening to the Beatles.

What a muppet!!

ROD